The island of Ithaka in Cavafy’s poem is used as a metaphor.  By comparing Ithaka to Homer’s “Odyssey”, it is seen that Ithaka is associated with one’s final destination. Just as the journey to Ithaka is a metaphor for the human journey through life, Ithaka is seen as a general metaphor for all final destinations. The journey to reach one’s “Ithaka” represents the experiences one has throughout their lifetime. This metaphorical meaning of Ithaka is clear from the context of the poem. For example, “As you set out for Ithaka” (v.1) and “Ithaka gave you the marvellous journey” (v.19) In addition, this is apparent from the last verse when the poet refers to Ithaka not in the singular tense but in plural, "Ithakas".

Moreover, metaphors were further used within the poem to create vivid imagery. The poem uses Cyclops’s and Laestrygonians, fearsome characters known to be savage,  to represent the psychological fears oppressing man: “Laistrygonians, Cyclops, / wild Poseidon-you won’t encounter them / unless you bring them along inside your soul” (v. 9-11). By using these characters, the poet was able effectively to convey that danger will not appear unless you summon it.